Smart Wealth and Retirement

Should You Own Bonds in Retirement? Here’s What to Know

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions break down one of the most confusing — yet essential — components of retirement planning: bonds.

Jim and Casey explain what bonds are, how they generate income, and why they behave differently from stocks. They dig into interest rates, bond ladders, risk vs. reward, and why bonds can either stabilize a retirement portfolio or hold it back depending on how they're used.

Whether you're already retired or planning ahead, this episode clarifies the role bonds should play in your long-term income plan — especially in today’s evolving interest-rate environment.

http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com

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Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Introduction: Why bonds matter in retirement
01:36 – What exactly is a bond?
02:58 – How bonds generate income
04:26 – Why bonds behave differently from stocks
05:58 – Interest rates and how they affect bond values
07:46 – The role bonds play in stabilizing a retirement portfolio
09:30 – When bonds can actually hurt your retirement plan
11:12 – Understanding bond duration and risk
12:58 – The pros and cons of bond ladders
14:40 – How to know if you have the right amount of bonds
16:12 – Bonds vs. CDs vs. annuities — what’s the difference?
17:48 – Practical tips for building a bond strategy

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Disclaimer

Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Martin Wealth Solutions, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, but no representations are made by our firm as to another parties’ informational accuracy or completeness. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.

The Biggest Retirement Mistakes—and How to Avoid Them

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions break down some of the most common — and costly — mistakes people make leading up to and during retirement.

From emotional investing and improper risk management to underestimating taxes, Social Security timing, and overspending early in retirement, Jim and Casey explain why these issues show up so often… and what you can do to stay clear of them.

They share real-world client experiences, discuss the habits that lead to long-term success, and offer practical steps to help retirees and pre-retirees avoid unnecessary stress, poor decisions, and financial regret.

http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com

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Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Introduction: Why retirement mistakes happen
03:05 – Mistake #1: Overspending early in retirement
06:14 – Mistake #2: Not having a written plan
08:10 – Mistake #3: Not investing your age
10:34 – Mistake #4: Working longer than you really needed to
13:29 – Mistake #5: Ignoring taxes until it's too late
14:23 – Mistake #6: Delaying big decisions
16:50 – Mistake #7: Not reaching out to our team 
17:40 – Q&A with Casey
20:45 – Key takeaways & closing thoughts

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Disclaimer

Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Martin Wealth Solutions, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, but no representations are made by our firm as to another parties’ informational accuracy or completeness. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.

Staying Sane in a Nervous Market: How Smart Investors Keep Their Cool

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions talk through one of the biggest emotional challenges retirees face: staying calm during market volatility.

Jim and Casey unpack why markets feel so unpredictable, the psychological traps investors often fall into, and the practical steps you can take to keep your financial plan on track when headlines turn scary. They also share real client experiences, lessons learned from previous downturns, and the mindset shifts that help long-term investors stay confident rather than reactive.

Whether you're retired or nearing retirement, this episode provides clarity and reassurance for navigating uncertain times with a steady hand.

http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com

Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Introduction: Why markets feel more “nervous” lately
02:04 – What a “nervous market” really means
03:30 – Why volatility feels worse than it actually is
05:22 – Emotional traps investors fall into
07:10 – Recency bias, fear, and market overreactions
09:18 – What history tells us about volatile periods
11:26 – How long-term investors can stay grounded
13:14 – Building a plan that can weather any market
15:06 – Why staying invested matters more than timing
17:20 – Real client stories from past downturns
19:02 – Practical steps to stay calm and make smart decisions
21:18 – How to evaluate your portfolio during volatility
22:42 – Final thoughts and encouragement

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Disclaimer

Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Martin Wealth Solutions, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, but no representations are made by our firm as to another parties’ informational accuracy or completeness. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.

Your 10-Step Year-End Financial Checklist

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions walk through a practical, easy-to-follow year-end financial checklist to help you finish the year strong and set up a successful year ahead.

Jim and Casey cover ten items every household should review before December 31st — They explain why each step matters, what most people overlook, and how small adjustments now can make a big impact on your long-term retirement plan.

Whether you’re nearing retirement or still building toward it, this is a simple and actionable guide to making sure your financial life is aligned and prepared for the coming year.

http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com

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Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Introduction: Why year-end planning matters

01:34 – What to review before December 31

03:18 – Checklist Item #1: Review your tax situation

04:24 – Checklist Item #2: Take your RMDs

05:06 – Checklist Item #3: Maximize retirement contributions

05:56 – Checklist Item #4: Harvest gains & losses wisely

07:20 – Checklist Item #5: Give strategically 

08:15 – Checklist Item #6: Review your portfolio & rebalance

09:05 – Checklist Item #7: Check beneficiaries & estate documents

10:10 – Checklist Item #8: Review your insurance coverage

10:45 – Checklist Item #9: Review long-term care insurance

11:05 – Checklist Item #10: Set next year's financial goals

13:10 – Q&A with Casey

15:25 – Final thoughts & takeaways

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Disclaimer:

Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Martin Wealth Solutions, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, but no representations are made by our firm as to another parties’ informational accuracy or completeness. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.

Long-Term Care 101: What You Need to Know Before You Retire

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions dive deep into one of the most important — and often misunderstood — parts of retirement planning: long-term care.

They break down what long-term care really means, how it fits into a retirement plan, and the pros and cons of having insurance versus self-funding. Jim and Casey explore the emotional and financial impact of care decisions, discuss the difference between traditional and hybrid policies, and share real-life examples from clients who’ve faced these challenges firsthand.

Whether you’re in your 50s, nearing retirement, or already retired, this episode offers practical insight into protecting your assets and your loved ones while maintaining peace of mind.

http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com

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Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Introduction: Why long-term care planning matters
02:12 – What “long-term care” actually covers
04:05 – How rising healthcare costs affect retirees
06:14 – Why planning early can make a big difference
08:02 – The pros of long-term care insurance
10:26 – Common drawbacks and misconceptions
12:45 – Comparing traditional vs. hybrid policies
15:04 – When self-funding may make more sense
17:10 – How long-term care can impact your income plan
19:22 – Real-life client examples and lessons learned
23:02 – Key takeaways and next steps

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Disclosure

Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Martin Wealth Solutions, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, but no representations are made by our firm as to another parties’ informational accuracy or completeness. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.

Rental Properties in Retirement: Smart Investment or Stress Trap?

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions explore whether owning rental properties is a smart move during retirement.

They discuss the pros — such as steady income, appreciation, and diversification — along with the cons that retirees often overlook, including taxes, maintenance headaches, liquidity issues, and tenant risk. Jim and Casey share real-life stories from clients who’ve both succeeded and struggled with investment properties, and they examine alternatives like REITs and other passive income options that offer exposure to real estate without the stress of being a landlord.

If you’ve ever wondered whether real estate belongs in your retirement plan, this conversation offers a balanced look at the opportunities and pitfalls — so you can make decisions that align with your goals, not just the headlines.

http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com

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Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Introduction: Is real estate the right move in retirement?
02:06 – The appeal of rental income for retirees
04:25 – The realities of being a landlord
06:40 – Taxes, repairs, and cash flow surprises
08:58 – When rental properties become more work than reward
11:10 – Client story: managing multiple rental homes
13:18 – Evaluating the opportunity cost of real estate ownership
15:06 – REITs and other alternatives to direct property management
17:45 – How to know if real estate fits your retirement plan
20:12 – Final thoughts and key takeaways

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Disclaimer

Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Martin Wealth Solutions, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, but no representations are made by our firm as to another parties’ informational accuracy or completeness. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.

Do You Really Need $1.5 Million to Retire? Breaking Down the Myth.

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions tackle one of the most common retirement questions — “Do I really need $1.5 million to retire comfortably?”

Jim and Casey break down where that number comes from, why it’s often misunderstood, and what truly determines how much you need. They discuss the key variables that shape your retirement number — lifestyle, spending habits, healthcare, taxes, and longevity — and explain how income planning can often matter more than your total account balance.

Whether you’re just starting to save or approaching the finish line, this episode helps you replace the guesswork with a plan that fits your real life — not a headline.

👉 http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
👉 www.planwellretirehappy.com

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Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction: The $1.5 Million Question
00:48 Meet the Hosts – Jim & Casey
01:35 Where the $1.5M Rule Comes From
03:22 Why “One-Size-Fits-All” Doesn’t Work
05:10 Lifestyle & Spending: The Real Drivers of Your Number
07:00 How Location and Cost of Living Impact Your Plan
08:45 The Importance of Income Planning Over Total Savings
10:58 Understanding Taxes, Inflation, and Longevity Risks
13:42 Real Client Story: Living Well Below $1.5 Million
16:05 How to Calculate Your Personal Retirement Number
18:10 Common Mistakes People Make When Estimating Needs
19:35 Final Thoughts: Confidence Over Comparison

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Disclaimer

Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Martin Wealth Solutions, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, but no representations are made by our firm as to another parties’ informational accuracy or completeness. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.

Healthcare in Retirement 101

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisor and retirement planner Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions is joined by special guest Theresa Martin to discuss one of the most underestimated parts of retirement planning — healthcare costs.

Together, they unpack what retirees often overlook when it comes to planning for rising medical expenses. Casey and Theresa dive into the differences between Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D, the gaps that can catch retirees off guard, and how to prepare for both routine and unexpected healthcare needs. They also explore long-term care options, the benefits of HSAs, and how proactive planning can help protect your nest egg from medical surprises.

If you’ve ever wondered how much to budget for healthcare in retirement — or how to make sure your plan covers more than just the basics — this conversation offers practical insight and clarity.

👉 http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
👉 www.planwellretirehappy.com

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Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction & Episode Setup
00:35 Meet the Hosts — Casey & Special Guest Theresa Martin
01:20 Why Healthcare Costs Matter in Retirement
03:05 Medicare Basics: Parts A, B, C & D
05:10 Coverage Gaps & Supplemental Options
07:05 Long-Term Care: What to Know & When It Makes Sense
09:00 HSAs & Tax Angles Before/After 65
10:35 Building a Healthcare Budget Inside Your Plan
12:20 Real-Life Example & Lessons Learned
14:10 Action Steps & Common Pitfalls to Avoid
15:30 Final Takeaways & Where to Get Help

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Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Martin Wealth Solutions, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, but no representations are made by our firm as to another parties’ informational accuracy or completeness. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.

Hidden Retirement Risks: How to plan for them.

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions tackle the question that keeps many investors up at night — “What if ....?”

They unpack the “what ifs” that often cloud retirement planning — market volatility, inflation, healthcare costs, and unexpected life changes. Jim and Casey share how proper planning can turn uncertainty into confidence through diversification, income planning, and risk management. They also discuss how retirees can prepare emotionally and financially for market fluctuations, and why the right strategy matters more than trying to time the market.

This conversation offers a calm, rational look at how to protect your retirement plan when the future feels uncertain.

👉 http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
👉 www.planwellretirehappy.com

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Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction: The “What If” Scenarios of Retirement
01:03 Meet the Hosts – Jim & Casey
02:00 The Fear of Retiring Before a Market Drop
04:28 How Diversification Protects Income
07:40 Building a Retirement Plan That Survives “What Ifs”
10:52 Inflation, Healthcare, and the Unexpected Costs of Retirement
13:17 The Emotional Side of Market Volatility
15:30 Real-Life Client Example: Staying the Course During a Downturn
18:45 Why Planning Beats Prediction
21:12 Final Thoughts & Takeaways

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Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Martin Wealth Solutions, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, but no representations are made by our firm as to another parties’ informational accuracy or completeness. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.

Downsizing in Retirement: Smart Move or Mistake?

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions dive into one of the biggest lifestyle and financial questions facing retirees — when and how to downsize.

They explore the emotional and financial sides of moving to a smaller home, freeing up cash flow, and simplifying life in retirement. Jim and Casey walk through key considerations such as market timing, tax implications, and the impact of housing costs on your long-term plan. They also share real client stories of those who downsized successfully (and those who wish they’d done it sooner), along with practical guidance on how to decide whether now’s the right time to make the move.

Whether you’re thinking about selling your family home, relocating to a lower-cost area, or exploring retirement communities, this episode will help you make an informed decision that supports both your heart and your balance sheet.

👉 http://retirewithmartin.com/
 ← Learn about working with us
👉 www.planwellretirehappy.com

Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction: The Emotional Side of Downsizing
01:08 Meet the Hosts – Jim & Casey
02:25 Why Downsizing Comes Up So Often in Retirement Planning
04:47 The Financial Math Behind a Smaller Home
07:32 Tax Considerations When Selling Your Home
09:45 Real Client Story: Moving to Simplify Life
12:58 Hidden Costs and Pitfalls to Avoid
15:40 Market Timing: Sell Now or Wait?
18:12 Lifestyle Shifts After Downsizing
20:55 Final Thoughts: Clarity Over Comfort

Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Martin Wealth Solutions, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, but no representations are made by our firm as to another parties’ informational accuracy or completeness. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.